The Ultimate Guide to Parking at the Minnesota State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul is the largest event in Minnesota, attracting around 1.7 million visitors each year over its 12-day run. Managing parking at such a high-traffic event can be challenging, and understanding your options can save time and frustration.

State Fair Lots

Although parking at the fair is available, it is often costly, and the State Fair’s parking lots fill up quickly. Accessible parking is provided for guests with disabilities, but the fees are the same as for all other vehicles. Additionally, parking a motorcycle also incurs a fee. However, if you cycle to the fair, you can take advantage of free parking available at three bike corrals at the Minnesota State Fair.

Free Street Parking

During the State Fair, parking restrictions are enacted on residential streets surrounding the fairgrounds to minimize congestion caused by visitors. Cities like St. Paul, Falcon Heights, and Roseville implement temporary restrictions primarily to keep the streets accessible for residents and emergency services.

To find legal street parking for the Minnesota State Fair while avoiding these restrictions, you’ll need to park and walk about two miles from legal, unrestricted free street parking. Look for areas south or north of the Fairgrounds, as significant parking restrictions exist from Como Park to the east and the University of Minnesota St. Paul campus to the west.

Other Ways to Park Near the Fair

Local residents near the State Fair in St. Paul may offer parking on their lawns or in their driveways for a fee. Be on the lookout for signs in neighborhoods adjacent to the Fairgrounds. Prices typically range from $5 to $15, depending on the distance to the Fairgrounds; however, these prices can fluctuate annually.

Park-and-Ride Lots

One of the best ways to park for free while attending the Minnesota State Fair is to use the various park-and-ride lots. These lots offer free parking and regular shuttle services to the fair. Park your vehicle for free and ride the bus to the fair at no cost. Over 20 park-and-ride lots are conveniently located around St. Paul and Roseville, with additional lots operating on weekends and Labor Day. The lots can get crowded at peak times, but they are close together, making it easy to find alternate parking if your first choice is full. Note that the shuttle buses run every 20 minutes.

Public Transportation

For an efficient alternative, consider using one of the Express buses that run to the fair from various locations across the Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs. Though these buses require a fare, they offer a speedy and air-conditioned travel option.

Additionally, Metro Transit operates a number of regular bus routes that directly serve the Minnesota State Fair, stopping right outside the fairgrounds’ main entrance. Regular fares apply to all riders, making this option both affordable and convenient.